The Federal Government has approved the procurement of 35 additional linear accelerators between 2027 and 2029 as part of efforts to expand access to radiotherapy and strengthen cancer treatment across Nigeria.
Gatekeepers News reports that Ado Bako, assistant director of information and public relations, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, quoting Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare.
Salako said the investment was part of measures under the National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030 aimed at improving cancer prevention, early detection and treatment.
The minister spoke in Abuja while hosting members of the Global Advisory Council of the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group.
According to him, six cancer centres are currently being developed across the country, with three already completed and another three under construction.
Salako said the government was also prioritising cancer prevention, highlighting President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme.
He added that the government was expanding cervical cancer screening, strengthening public awareness and integrating selected screening services into primary and secondary healthcare facilities to improve early detection.
He said a Cervical Cancer Elimination Council was also being established as part of the broader efforts to tackle the disease.
“Prevention is better and cheaper than cure. We are doing everything possible to expand routine immunisation, broaden screening and improve early detection,” the minister said.
Salako commended members of the advisory council for contributing their expertise, experience, networks and resources towards improving cancer control in Nigeria.
He also inaugurated the Blood Cancer Consortium, describing it as an important platform for strengthening collaboration, sharing knowledge and improving outcomes in the management of blood cancers.
The meeting ended with the ceremonial signing of a strategic partnership involving the ministry, the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group and members of the advisory council.
In June, Salako said the Federal Government was targeting a 50 percent reduction in Nigeria’s cancer burden by 2030 through improved screening, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship interventions.
The minister stressed that partnerships would remain critical to achieving the country’s cancer control objectives, adding that the government could not tackle the challenge alone.
He said the Federal Government would continue to work with private-sector stakeholders and development partners to strengthen cancer prevention and treatment across the country.
